Great American Meatout Day

Theekshitha Thangaval
Dec 22, 2023 By Theekshitha Thangaval
Originally Published on Mar 03, 2022
Fact-checked by Shruti Thapa
Welcome your vegetarian journey with open arms on Great American Meatout Day!
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Read time: 3.0 Min

Where is Great American Meatout celebrated?

It is celebrated in the U.S.

Who is Great American Meatout celebrated by?

Great American Meatout is an animal-rights movement celebrated by Americans to stop the nationwide meat habit, even for just one day.

When did Great American Meatout Day first start?

It first began in 1985. It has raised awareness about how farmed animals are treated and how they contribute to climate change.

Who started Great American Meatout Day?

Great American Meatout was started by the Farm Animal Rights Movement(FARM), in 1985. Since its beginning, the day has set out to bring awareness about animal products and has encouraged many towards a more compassionate diet.

Studies have shown, consuming a lot of red meat increases the risk of diabetes and some cancers.

History And Timeline

The meat industry has a long line of achievements that have enabled it to become widespread and successful. Below are some important dates and facts that have cheered the meat industry on.

Founding Of Great American Meatout Day

Founded by FARM with the notion to save animals, this day has brought to our attention that different meats are not the only best protein sources available. 

1985

Storage

Before the invention of refrigerators, ice was transported and used to keep meat from getting spoiled. 

1890

The Incubator

Charles Cypher invented the incubator with the ability to store 20,000 eggs.

1896

Spanish-American War

During this period, U.S. military troops were fed canned and refrigerated meat. 

1898

Warning To Humanity

15,364 scientists signed the 'Warning To Humanity,' calling for drastic changes in our lifestyle, including the limitation of consumption of meat and fossil fuels used per person. 

2017

Traditions And Customs

The common practice is to quit meat and turn to a vegetarian diet, for a day. Raising awareness is the main theme here. Although meat is an important element in many traditional cultures, a simple meat-free diet has more benefits for our health.

The day is usually filled with rallies of animal activists and is a major educational event. Food sampling is a great way to enjoy this day if you're a foodie!

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Great American Meatout

Another way to take part in this day is to arrange a vegetarian potluck in your neighborhood. You can try one of the many vegetarian recipes online. Of course, watching documentaries about the meat industry and educating yourself about where your animal products come from can make your day. But not all documentaries are for the light-hearted.

Facts And Stats

  • If you choose to quit meat for life after Meatout Day, then you will be saving 200 animals, 1.3 million gallons of water, and 53,000 sq ft of rainforest annually.
  • Meatout announcements have been made publicly by 47 mayors in major cities across the country.
  • This meatout, which is celebrated on the first day of spring, aims to educate people on the health benefits of a vegetarian/vegan diet. It has been said that this type of diet can reduce chronic diseases and heart disease, while also eliminating world hunger. Over 10 billion animals are slaughtered for meat every year in the U.S. alone, and the Great American Meatout hopefully brings the number down.

What is the purpose of the Great American Meatout?

To raise awareness of the benefits of a meatless diet and to save animals.

What are the health benefits of eating fresh vegetables and fruits?

There are many benefits, such as lowering the risk of chronic illnesses.

When was the first Great American Meatout observed?

It was first celebrated on the first day of spring in 1985 on March 20th.

Is Great American Meatout Day a global event?

It's not a global event, but a few other countries do have similar days.

How does celebrating the Great American Meatout benefit farm animals?

If people do choose to become meat-free in their daily lives, then it will affect the numbers slaughtered in the long term. 

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Friday, March 20, 2020
  • Saturday, March 20, 2021
  • Sunday, March 20, 2022
  • Monday, March 20, 2023
  • Wednesday, March 20, 2024

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Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Farm_Animal_Rights_Movement#Great_American_Meatout

https://www.wikidates.org/holiday/great-american-meatout-day_848.html

https://www.peoplesworld.org/article/this-day-in-history-the-great-american-meatout/

https://vegnews.com/2013/3/celebrate-the-great-american-meatout-on-march-20th

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_meat_production

https://www.britannica.com/explore/savingearth/its-meatout-day

https://www.downtoearth.org/news/2010-02/1322/30-great-american-meatout-sale

https://meatout.org/

https://www.provisioneronline.com/articles/103414-meat-industry-timeline-1891-1916

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Written by Theekshitha Thangaval

Bachelor of Science specializing in Zoology

Theekshitha Thangaval picture

Theekshitha ThangavalBachelor of Science specializing in Zoology

With diverse interests that include travel, sports, cooking, gardening, wildlife conservation, and more, Theekshitha is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Indra Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and is a former teacher at Sholai School (CLOAAT). After gaining experience as a teacher, she transitioned to content writing. She is an enthusiastic learner and team player who consistently strives to upskill herself.

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Fact-checked by Shruti Thapa

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English

Shruti Thapa picture

Shruti ThapaBachelor of Arts specializing in English

With a passion for American, British, and children's literature, Shruti is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree at Garden City University, Bengaluru. Her fluency in Nepali, Hindi, and Mandarin demonstrates her linguistic abilities and global perspective. In addition to her literary pursuits, she has a keen interest in non-fiction literature, aesthetics, early childhood education, and Egyptian history. Shruti's research paper 'Bringing Art Illustrations In Education And Pop Culture' showcases her proficiency in these areas and her dedication to academic excellence.

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